Lahore, the second-largest city of Pakistan, the ancient capital of Punjab, home to nearly as many people as New York, layered like a sedimentary plain with the accreted history of invaders from the Aryans to the Mongols to the British.
~ Mohsin Hamid.
If you want to explore the true colors of Pakistan, you need to visit Lahore as soon as possible. The ancient city with its marvellous architecture, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and historical monuments is truly a treat for the eyes. The most famous historical places in Lahore are 13 Gates of Lahore.
In this blog, we bring you a list of historical places in Lahore. If you have a knack for history and want to know more about the historical places of Pakistan, you need to pay a visit to the places mentioned in this blog.
To know more about the famous historical places in Lahore, keep on reading.
Badshahi Mosque
Badshahi Mosque Lahore is considered to be one of the most important historical places in Pakistan. It is the epitome of magnificent Mughal architecture and design. It was built around 1673 and it is also the second-largest mosque in Pakistan. Lahore has some of the most famous architects.
The structure consists of red sandstone carvings which were hugely inspired by Indo Greek architecture and design. The marble flooring and great attention to detail in the walls add more beauty to the place. Every day hundreds of people gather at the beautiful mosque to offer prayers. You can visit the mosque every day between 8 AM to 8 PM.
Lahore Fort
Lahore Fort was the residence of Mughal emperors in ancient times. It is also a UNESCO-protected site, owing to its historical significance. The fort became popular during the reign of Akbar but its presence dates back to the 11th century. To see the true and beautiful colours of Pakistan, one has to visit Lahore.
If you want to experience the majesty and mystery of the fort, take a walk in its garden while the sun is setting. After visiting the fort, do not forget to pay a visit to the Mughal Museum, armoury gallery, Sheesh Mahal and the Sikh Museum.
Ali Hajvery’s Tomb
The next famous historical place on our list is Ali Hajvery’s tomb. If you are interested in Sufism and want to know more about the Sufi saints of Lahore, try visiting this place.
People claim that Ali Hajveri was a renowned Sufi saint of the subcontinent who lived in Lahore until the 11th century. He had several Muslim and non-Muslim followers. There are many things to do in Lahore. Every day hundreds of people visit the tomb and offer prayers, give money, and put flowers next to the tomb.
Samadhi of Ranjit Singh
It is an 18th-century building that has the funerary urns of the Sikh ruler Ranjit Singh who died in 1839. The samadhi is located right next to the famous Lahore Fort and Badshahi Mosque. The building is the epitome of Hindu, Islamic, and Sikh architecture, design, symbolism, and motifs. The building is composed of gilded fluted domes and cupolas.
The front side of the building has a doorway which is decorated with the images of Ganesh, Devi, and Brahma. The wooden panels on the ceiling are decorated with stained glass work, while the walls are richly decorated with floral designs. The ceilings are decorated with glass mosaic work.
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Miani Sahib Graveyard
The Miani Sahib Graveyard is considered to be the largest burial ground in Lahore. It is located in the heart of Lahore. The graveyard dates back to the Mughal times which means it is one of the oldest graveyards in the country.
The graveyard covers an area of 1,206 kilometres square (60 hectares, 149 acres) and has a capacity of approximately 300,000 graves. You can visit the city in summer as there are top luxurious pools in Lahore to chill in summer.
Wazir Khan Mosque
The Wazir Khan Mosque is a historical mosque built in the 17th century. The construction of the mosque started during the rule of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. The construction of the Wazir Khan Mosque began in 1634 C.E. and was completed in 1641. The mosque is known among the masses because of its tile work known as Kashi-Kari.
The mosque is built on an elevated plinth, with the main portal opening onto the Wazir Khan Chowk. The area is surrounded by several local shops and hawkers. For shopping from top brands, there are many malls in Lahore you can visit. The outer perimeter of the Wazir Khan Mosque measures 279 feet (85 m) by 159 feet (48 m).
Krishna Mandir
The Krishna Mandir is a Hindu temple (mandir) dedicated to the Hindu deity Krishna located on Ravi Road, opposite Timber Market in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan. In 2006, the temple became a centre of controversy due to media reports on its demolition which later turned out incorrect.
It is one of the two Hindu temples in Lahore, the other being Valmiki Mandir. Lahore is known for its Mughal architecture and beautiful gardens. The vibrant culture and warm people make Lahore worth visiting.
Haveli of Nau Nihal Singh
The next historical site in Lahore which is on our list is the Haveli of Nau Nihal Singh. The place dates back to the 19th century and is the epitome of the finest Sikh architecture and culture. It is also the only Sikh-era haveli that preserves its original ornamentation and architecture.
The Haveli was constructed during the 1840s for Nau Nihal Singh, grandson of the founder of the Sikh Empire, Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Currently, the Victoria Girls’ High School operates in the building. The haveli consists of a rectangular structure. It has a facade that is divided into two sections.
A large jharokha balcony with sculpted brickwork and a small bulbous half dome is above the haveli’s entry. If you are looking for a place to stay in Lahore, check out guesthouses in Lahore providing the best services.
Fakir Khana
Fakir Khana is not a historical place itself but it is the house of many historical pieces. It is a private museum and house located in Lahore, Pakistan, owned by the Fakir family. Fakhir Khana contains over 20,000 objects and is the largest privately owned museum in South Asia.
The Fakir family settled in Lahore around 1730 and established a publishing house. Their ancestors like Fakir Nooruddin, Fakir Azizuddin, and Fakir Imamuddin had close ties with the Sikh emperor and they served as emissaries to Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
The museum has 20,000 pieces of art and artefacts dating back to the 18th to 20th centuries. Some of the items in the museum include 10,000 manuscripts, 180 displayed miniature paintings, Sikh-era textiles, statuary, pottery, and carved ivory pieces.
Sheesh Mahal
Sheesh, mahal means a palace made up of mirrors. It was constructed under the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1631–32. It is among the 21 monuments that were built by Mughal emperors inside Lahore Fort. It has a huge hall as well which was used by the imperial family only.
The Sheesh Mahal is elaborately decorated with a myriad of reflective glass tiles. Even the ceilings of the mahal are filled with mirrorwork. The engraved spandrels and bases are inlaid with precious stones.
So, these are some of the historical places in Lahore that you should visit once in your life. All these buildings and monuments connect you with our rich history and culture. Pakistan is packed with amazing places to visit with your family and friends. If you want to visit outside Pakistan, check out the top visa-free countries for Pakistani passports.
Give this blog a read and let us know your view regarding these places. Get to know more about Fun Places in Karachi
FAQs
Which are historical places in Lahore?
Lahore boasts a rich tapestry of historical treasures. The Badshahi Mosque, an architectural marvel from the Mughal era, stands as one of the largest mosques globally, while the Lahore Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, narrates tales of Mughal grandeur with structures like Sheesh Mahal and Moti Masjid. Shalimar Gardens, a masterpiece of Mughal landscape design, mesmerizes with its terraced layout, flowing water, and ornate fountains.
What is the most famous thing in Lahore?
Lahore’s culinary scene is renowned worldwide, making it a gastronomic haven. The city’s most famous aspect is undoubtedly its diverse and delectable food culture. From tantalizing street food to iconic dishes like biryanis, and kebabs, and local specialities such as “nihari” and “paye,” Lahore’s food offerings provide a vibrant and unforgettable culinary experience.
Which is the oldest monument in Lahore?
The Lahore Fort stands as the oldest monument in Lahore, dating back to the Mughal era. Constructed during Emperor Akbar’s reign in the 16th century, the fort has witnessed centuries of history and reflects the architectural brilliance of various Mughal rulers. It remains a testament to Lahore’s enduring historical significance.
What is the short history of Lahore?
Lahore’s history is a rich tapestry woven over millennia. From its ancient roots in the Indus Valley Civilization to its prominence during the Mughal era under Emperor Akbar, Lahore has been a cultural, political, and economic centre.
The city flourished under Sikh rule led by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the 19th century and later became part of British India. Post-independence, Lahore became a vibrant part of Pakistan, blending its historical charm with modern developments. Today, it stands as a city with a unique and diverse heritage.
